Critically appraise the extent to which an understanding of cultural Essay

Critically appraise the extent to which an understanding of cultural differences can assist in managing people in the workplace - Essay Example This paper will critically appraise the extent to which an understanding of cultural differences can assist in managing people in the workplace. There has been a good definition of culture in the above first chapter. It is important to note that culture is either generic culture or local culture (Alatas, 2009). Generic culture consists of shared culture among people in the world, whereas local culture entails schemas that are shared by the only specific social group in this world (Alatas, 2009). Globalization has made this world a global village. In broader terms, globalization has brought people in this world closer. That said, people from different parts of the world have found themselves working together in the same corporations. This is very interesting because it seems hard to deal with people from different cultures. It requires deeper understanding of cultural diversities such as things not to say to people from different cultures, and the ways of communication (Calveley, 2015). A good understanding of cultural diversities by managers will make it easy for them to motivate employees, structuring strategies, and implementing important strategies. As noted in a study by Connaughton (2007), there are many levels where culture works. The first level is national level. Here, the unconscious values of people bring the difference in national culture. These values are taught when people are young. National culture is normally stable but changes afterward in the practices, but the unconscious values do not change (Connaughton, 2007). The second level is organizational level. Here, the level of practices is the one that brings the difference and are often manageable. Organizational cultures usually differ from one company to another, but the firms need to be operating in the same country (Connaughton, 2007). The third is occupational level. This lies between organizational and national cultures. For example, entering an occupation such as service in the

Importance of Exercise for the Elderly: Literature Review

Importance of Exercise for the Elderly: Literature Review Sports studies with business Chapter 1 Introduction The importance of physical activity and physical fitness in terms of â€Å"†¦ health and longevity †¦Ã¢â‚¬  have been linked since the â€Å"†¦ earliest records of organized exercise used in health promotion †¦ (which were) †¦ found in China around 2500 B.C†¦.† (Hardman et al, 2003, p. 3). Hippocrates, who is â€Å"†¦ often called the Father of Modern Medicine, wrote †¦Ã¢â‚¬ : â€Å"†¦ all parts of the body which have a function, if used in moderation and exercised in labours in which each is accustomed, become thereby healthy, well-developed and age more slowly, but if unused and left idle they become liable to disease, defective in growth and age quickly† (Hardman et al, 2003, p. 3). The link between exercise and health has been a long established fact in medicine that also traces back to â€Å"Cicero in 44 BC (who was himself echoing Aristotle) †¦Ã¢â‚¬  who believed that health as one ages is improved by having a good diet along with exercise and mental stimulation (Harlow, 2006). In fact, Cicero â€Å"†¦ saw old age as something yet to happen to him †¦Ã¢â‚¬  when he was in his sixties and writing his treatise in an period when less than â€Å"†¦ seven percent of the population reached sixty† (Harlow, 2006). The preceding three factors of diet, exercise and mental stimulation as mentioned by Cicero are ingredients that are present in when one participates in sports. The subject of elderly participation in sporting activities in the United Kingdom represents one of considerable importance as the percentage of older adults increases in proportion to the UK’s total population. This examination shall seek to equate the participation rates for sports in the United Kingdom, delving into how, and if social class represents a contributing factor concerning the potential of this group participating in sporting activities in later life. The prospect of sport participation in later life shall also be undertaken along with whether social class enters into this facet as well concerning participation rates. The importance of age is impacting the population in the United Kingdom whereby the number of people over the age of 65 has increased to 16 percent, with the age group 85 and older comprising 12 percent of the total population (National Statistics, 2007). The significance of the foregoing is that people are living longer as a result of better nutrition, health care, and living conditions as well as life styles (Quanten, 2004). Interestingly, Quanten (2004) makes the observation that medical science has determined that our basis for calculating the longevity of ancient civilizations is faulty in that the technique utilized in estimating age was based upon bone density. The bone samples generally belonged to middle aged men and women, thus the formula utilized to determine age was based upon the weakening of said density which was slower then than it is now (Quanten, 2004). Thus it was found that the estimation of age has been seriously under represented, putting the average life span of early man in the range of somewhere between 80 and 100 years, meaning that in modern terms civilization has lost ground in aging as opposed to gaining, as was the consensus of thought (Quanten, 2004). Evidence supporting the preceding in today’s world can be found in the fact that there are many examples of individuals living to 120 to 130 years, with the vast majority of them living in extreme conditions where a high degree of physical labour is required for survival, as represented by jungles untouched by modern society, and harsh climates as found in Northern Russia (Quanten, 2004). The common fact linking the ancient study and present day examples of individuals living 120 to 130 years is that their environments were and are more physical in their demands, with the lifestyles requiring more exercise. Kligman and Pepin (1992, pp. 33-34, 37-44. 47), the American College of Sports Medicine (1998, pp. 992-1008), Dishman (1994, pp. 1087-1094) and Nelson et al (1991, pp. 1304-1311) along with numerous other sources all attest to the benefits of exercise in early life as well as throughout life as beneficial in staving off disease as well as prolonging life. Studies as undertaking by Shepard (1993, pp. 61-64) and, Paffenbarger et al (1989, pp. 605-613) for example, cite incidences in Finland as well as Harvard University in the United States where those who consistently exercised lived on average 2 to 3 years longer that their more sedentary counterparts. The foregoing brief examples and analysis of age and exercise has been conducted to provide an initial foundation for understanding the framework of this examination which shall delve into elderly sports participation rates in the United Kingdom. The topic of this study is to attempt to determine, if possible, how social class affects the likelihood of doing sporting activities in later life, with its aim to see if social class does have an influence on people taking/carrying on sporting activity in this context. In conducting this examination, the foregoing also seek to compare individuals in the age group representing 55 years of age and above who participate in sporting activities against those who do not through a comparison of their social class backgrounds as represented by working middle class and upper middle class classifications to determine if any correlation exists. Chapter 2 – Literature Review Resnick et al (2006, p. 174), in â€Å"Screening for and Prescribing Exercise for Older Adults† advise that there is substantial scientific evidence that supports the benefits of exercise in maintaining â€Å"†¦ function, health, and overall quality of life for older adults. The article advises that physical activity represents â€Å"†¦ one of the greatest opportunities to extend †¦Ã¢â‚¬  an individual’s active as well as independent life and reduce the incidence of disability, and that regular physical activity by older adults are more likely to have better health (Resnick et al, 2006, pp. 174-182). In spite of the clear evidence of the preceding, most adults do not participate or engage in either sport or physical activity, and unfortunately the prescription of a regular physical regime is not yet a routine clinical practice (Resnick et al, 2006, pp. 174-182). The article went on to state that the best methodology via which to engage in a sport or ph ysical exercise is to first seek the aid of a physician to reach a determination of one’s present medical and physical state in order for a person to understand the types of activities they should / can engage in, as well as seeking help with a program to ease them into a proper regime. The Council of Europe (1993) defines sport as encompassing â€Å"†¦ all forms of physical activity †¦Ã¢â‚¬  which includes casual participation for which the aim of the activity is to improve â€Å"†¦ physical fitness and mental well-being †¦Ã¢â‚¬  along with the formation of social relationships and or obtaining competitive results. As such, the foregoing expands what one traditionally understands as the defintion of sport into a broader context that includes individual sport as well as fitness activities that include certain dance activities, and aerobics along with walking and cycling (Rowe et al, 2004). The Council of Europe’s (1993) definition includes informal and casual participation, along with the more serious club and professional pursuits (Rowe et al, 2004). The study conducted by Rowe et al (2004) defined participation as at least once a week in the activity, and found that the evidence collected indicated that the United Kingdom had moved t owards stagnation with regard to participation levels. The following chart reflects these findings: Table 1 – Sport, Game and Phyisical Activity Participation in the United Kingdom (Rowe et al, 2004) The preceding indicates the fluctuating levels of particpation occuring at the rate of at least one time a week over a four week period for the indicated periods. The following Table shows the foregoing, but excludes walking. Table 2 – Participation in Sports, Games and Physical Activity (Excludes walking) (Rowe et al, 2004) Social class differences explored in the study by Rowe et al (2004) showed a marked difference in sport participation between the highest and lowest social classifications, as one would expect owing to differences in the ability to spend time on pursuits as a result of disposable income and time, in addition to living closer to facilities and or having the transportation and or a circle of friends who also participate, thus making sport an increased part of their lifestyle. Table 3 – Differences in Social Class, Sport Participation 1987 – 1996 (Rowe et al, 2004) Table 4 – Projected Chanages in Number of Sport Participants between 1996 – 2026, Based on Trends Established 1990 – 1996 (Rowe et al, 2004) The total number of estimated particpants in varied sports activity is shown projected into the year 2026 in the above Table. The increased number is due to the rise of the number of people in these age groups as opposed to actual increased participation (Rowe et al, 2004). Older aged individuals, as shown by Tables 1 and 2 have significantly lower sport activity participation rates which to a large degree, as expressed in the study conducted by Rowe et al (2004), is due to reduced participation in their social group, aliments, lack of income, non-inclusion in their lifestyle as well as being uninformed that sport and exercise represent a healthful benefit that should be continued throughout an individual’s life. Thurston and Green (2004, pp. 379-387) support the previous contention of the development of more active lifestyles for older individuals, as does the Department of Health (1995) in their document â€Å"More People, More Active, More Often. Physical Activity in England†, and Department of Health douments in the years 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2002 that all make references to the overwhelming evidence that indicates that frequent and regular physical activity is beneficial to health. The foregoing includes an increased life expectancy, diabetes, control over obesity, reduction in coronary heart disease, positive health outcomes, increased mobility and coordination as well as other benefits (Thurston and Green, 2004, pp. 379-387). Studies have shown that even if an adult begins sport and exercise programs as late as 60 years of age they can improve their life expectancy by 1 to 2 years, however 40% of adults in the above 60 year age group do not partake in such a regime even if they were aware of the benefits (Thurston and Green, 2004, pp. 379-387). The understanding of the importance of the older generation as a part of the overall national profile as well as economic, health, medical and social system, the House of Lords published is document titled â€Å"Aging: Scientific Aspects†, in 2005 (House of Lords, 2005). The Report stated that the â€Å"†¦ economic implications of changing life expectancy are †¦ of great importance †¦Ã¢â‚¬ , with the â€Å"†¦ urgency of these matters †¦ â€Å"made plain from statistics that point out â€Å"†¦ for the first time the number of people in England and Wales aged 60 and over was greater than the number aged under 16† (House of Lords, 2005). When the figures for what is termed the ‘oldest old’, meaning individuals above the age of 85 are included, the implications are even more striking: Table 5 – Oldest Old Comparisons, UK and the World (House of Lords, 2005) The growth rate of the aging population in the United Kingdom is outstripping the global rate to the point whereby the UK is projected to reach a figure of 20% of its total population in 2020, fully thirty years before the global population will reach that figure, thus making the prospect of old age health an important one for the country. Table 6 – Life Expectancy, United Kingdom (House of Lords, 2005) The above Table indicates that the life expectancy in England is higher when counted alone. In examining the elderly sports participation rate for the older population in the United Kingdom utilizing social class distinctions, it is important equate the defining aspects of these groups. The following defines the preceding as found in the House of Lords document â€Å"Aging: Scientific Aspects†: Table 7 – Social Class Segments (House of Lords, 2005) Table 8 – Life Expectancy by Social Class (House of Lords, 2005) The preceding Table represented an aid in the later determination of social class and if this factor has any bearing, and or influence upon participation in carrying on sporting activities in later life. The House of Lord’s report on â€Å"Aging: Scientific Aspects† did indicate through the study of varied reports as well as consultations that it came to the conclusion, which is a consensus view, â€Å"†¦ that aging is caused by lifelong accumulation of molecular and cellular damage †¦Ã¢â‚¬  as opposed to the theory of a â€Å"†¦ rigid inner clock †¦Ã¢â‚¬  (House of Lords, 2005). Importantly, the ‘Report’ indicated that the process of aging â€Å"†¦ is more malleable than has been generally appreciated †¦Ã¢â‚¬  and that the â€Å"†¦ mechanisms governing health in old age †¦Ã¢â‚¬  are processes that are ongoing throughout the lives of individuals (House of Lords, 2005). In reference to the implications of this examination, the ‘Report’ â€Å"†¦ summarized what appears to be a consensus view †¦Ã¢â‚¬  regarding the key factors promoting good health as well as slowing down the ageing process as (House of Lords, 2005): physical activity; having a social role and function; good nutrition; absence of risk factors such as smoking and drinking to excess; and good mental health and well-being The ‘Report’ stressed that physical activity represents a ‘key’ facet of good health and â€Å"†¦ is the major modifiable influence on health in old age† (House of Lords, 2005). In making such a statement the ‘Report’ referred to ‘The Royal Society of Edinburgh’ which stated that exercise has been shown as being a critical factor in maintaining as well as modestly increasing bone density of adults, and more importantly can aid in the minimization of bone loss in older individuals (House of Lords, 2005). The overall ‘Report’ on â€Å"Aging: Scientific Aspects† provided key background information that proved helpful, with regard to general information, and indispensable with regard to demographic groups, exercise, and the government’s recognition of the importance of the issue as well as the specific and key identification of key points. With regard to sport, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (2007a) aims to encourage wider sports participation, and in regard to the focus of this examination, to promote sport at the grassroots level, which has implications concerning facilities that the older generation either has available, and or needs (Department for Culture, Media and Sport, 2007b). In its Report â€Å"Where are we Now: The State of Sport Today†, it clarifies that the government does not run sport, but recognizes it as an important factor in the health, and well being of children, adults, and the older generation (Department for Culture, Media and Sport, 2007b). Overall, across all age and demographic groups, the United Kingdom ranks in the middle of the European Union in sports participation by the general public, as shown by the following: Table 9 – European Union General Population Sport Participation (In Percent) (Department for Culture, Media and Sport, 2007b) In terms of intensity, individuals in the United Kingdom participate in sports on a less regular basis, and with less intensity (Department for Culture, Media and Sport, 2007b). The last aspect does not have applicability with regard to older adults, however the former is a telling statistics concerning its bearing on older sports participation. Table 10 – UK Sport Participation (In percent) (Department for Culture, Media and Sport, 2007b) Rate of Intensity The following table indicates the rates of participation of residents in the UK. Table 11 – Competitive and Organized Sport Participation in the UK (Department for Culture, Media and Sport, 2007b) The ‘Report’ indicates participation rates among social economic groups varies, however it does not break out these statistics into age groups. Table 12 – UK General Population Sports Participation by Social Economic Group (Department for Culture, Media and Sport, 2007b) Table 13 – UK Sport Participation by Ethnic Minority (Department for Culture, Media and Sport, 2007b) Sport England (2005) undertook a study that systematically reviewed published and unpublished research studies regarding children, and adult reasons concerning participation as well as non-participation in sport, which this examination utilized to add to the other research and literature sources. An important facet that was identified in the study was one representing an individual’s personal appearance and proficiency levels. The preceding two aspects are generally overlooked factors that are a part of a person’s sport participation consideration. The very real concern of having an unfit body, being out of shape, not able to conduct certain aspects of sport participation performance on a level that could potentially lead to personal embarrassment, are very real concerns that could and do enter into dissuading individuals from participating in a sporting activity (Sport England, 2005). Facilities and availability are also factors that enter into the participation equation, along with costs. For example, the incidence of parks, walkways, golf, tennis, cricket, bicycle paths, gym facilities and the like are more likely to be located near to upper income neighbourhoods than lower income

Essay --

GAAP principles have received a lot of support from substantial authorities. The AICPA’s code of conduct directs that its members should prepare their financial statements based on GAAP guidelines. For example, AICPA Rule 203 forbids a member from articulating an unprofessional opinion on financial statements that have deviated from adhering to GAAP principles. GAAP principles come from the several organizations. It is composed of a combination of more than 2,000 documents that have been used for approximately 60 years or so. It incorporates such items as FASB Standards Staff Positions and interpretations; APB inputs; and AICPA Research reports. A differing format in the documents that comprise GAAP, inconsistency and difficulty in interpretation make financial preparers to be unsure whether they have the right GAAP. This makes it hard for them to determine whether what they have prepared is authoritative or not. These facts led FASB to develop the FASB accounting standards co dification or The main goal of codification is to bring together all the reliable literature linked to a particular topic. The main purpose of codification is to change GAAP documentation, presentation and updates. Codification simplifies access to GAAP. FASB project of codifying GAAP was completed in 2009 and released the same year. During the codification period, all existing GAAP literature was officially withdrawn. Generally, codification does not change GAAP but it introduces a new, organized, more accessible and user-friendly structure. The accounting standards codification is important because it eliminates the multi-level hierarchy in order to bifurcate the authoritative and non-authoritative guidance. Codification incorporates all the relevant SEC g... ...category of related guidance such as assets. Most research using the Codification uses the browse function and it is done by selecting specific topics. In browsing, the possibility of having the same guidance in two places is eliminated (Raabe, Whittenburg, Sanders & Sawyers, 2011). The Codification structure comprises of â€Å"presentation† where the reporting aspects of GAAP are covered; â€Å"Assets† where assets such as investments, intangibles and receivables are covered; Liabilities where all types of liabilities such as contingencies are covered; Revenue which includes products such as services revenue; Equity which cover topics such as stock dividends and stock, and treasury stock; Industry for specifics such as real estates, entertainment; and â€Å"master glossary† which includes a compilation of terminologies from GAAP original documents (Espstein, Nach & Bragg, 2011).

A Phytochemical and Pharmacological Review Essay

Sambong (Blumea balsamifera) is a native flowering or weed that is endemic in the Philippines and other tropical countries. It is a popular herb especially for its healing properties including antidiarrhetic, antigastralgic, expectorant, stomachic, and antispasmodic, among others. Aside from these, sambong is also popular for being emmenagogues, or for stimulating menstruation or the blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus. As cure for menstrual cramps, the sambong leaves are boiled to create a sambong tea, which is then consumed by the patient. Aside from easing the painful cramps by facilitating menstruation, sambong also helps in cleaning the kidneys. The plant is actually especially known as a natural cleansing herb. Since the plant is emmenagogues, drinking the sambong tea is not advisable to pregnant women as well as women who wanted to be pregnant. Moreover, drinking sambong should also be regulated because it also has hallucinogenic effects when excessively consumed Blumea b alsamifera (L.) DC. (Asteraceae), also known as sambong, has been used as medicine for thousands of years in Southeast Asia countries, such as China, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Philippines. Sambong is the most important member of the genus Blumea and is an indigenous herb oftropical and subtropical Asia, especially in China. This plant grows on forest edges, under forests, riverbeds, valleys and grasses [4,5]. In China, it is generally a common used herb in the areas south of theYangtze River, such as Hainan, Guizhou, Yunnan, and Guangdong provinces and Taiwan [6–8].B. balsamifera is commonly called â€Å"Ainaxiang† and â€Å"Dafeng’ai† in Chinese and used as incensebecause it has a high level of essential oils [9]. It was originally recorded in â€Å"Bei Ji Qian Jin YaoFang† in 652 by Sun Simiao. The whole plant or its leaves were used as a crude Chinese traditional medicinal material to treat eczema, dermatitis, beriberi, lumbago, menorrhagia, rheumatism, skininjury, and as an insecticide [10]. Bing Pian and Aipian are two important traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) extracted from plants and have been used as one in prescriptions for centuries in China. Both of them mainly contain borneol and are similar in efficacy [11]. They are synonymous in the Chinese  pharm aceutical industry nowadays. Before 2010, sambong was one of the most important plant sources for Bing Pian, but since 2010, the Pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China records B. balsamifera as the only plant source for Aipian [11], with a consistent efficacy with B.  balsamifera medicinal materials, which could induce resuscitation, clear heat, and relieve pain. Recently, extracts of its leaves have been verified do display various new physiological activities, such as antitumor , antifungal [13,15], radical-scavenging [16], and anti-obesity properties . The main active compound is L-borneol, which was characterized by a high volatility. Besides, essential oils, flavonoids, and terpenoids with several different biological activities were also reported . These studies could explain why this plant has multiple pharmacological effects. In this review, botanical descriptions, herbal authentications, and phytochemical constituents of B. balsamifera are covered. In addition, the previous in vitro and in vivo studies conducted on its biological activities are reviewed, concentrating on antitumor, hepatoprotective, superoxide radical scavenging, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammation, antiplasmodial, antityrosinase, platelet aggregation, wound healing, anti-obesity, disease and insect resistant activities as well as enhancing percutaneous pen etration. Sambong is a half woody, strongly aromatic shrub, densely and softly hairy, 1 to 4 meters high. Stems grow up to 2.5 centimeters in diameter. Leaves are simple, alternate, elliptic- to oblong-lanceolate, 7 to 20 centimeters long, toothed at the margins, pointed or blunt at the tip, narrowing to a short petiole which are often auricled or appendaged. Flowering heads are stalked, yellow and numerous, 6 to 7 millimeters long, and borne on branches of a terminal, spreading or pyramidal leafy panicle. Discoid flowers are of two types: peripheral ones tiny, more numerous, with tubular corolla; central flowers few, large with campanulate corolla. Involucral bracts are green, narrow and hairy. Anther cells tailed at base. Fruits are achenes, dry, 1-seeded, 10-ribbed, hairy at top. – Considered anthelmintic, antidiarrheal, antigastralgic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, emmenagogue, expectorant, stomachic, and vulnerary.Leaves used a flavoring ingredient. Folkloric – Leaves as poultice for abscesses. – Decoction of roots and leaves for fevers, kidney stones, and cystitis. – Decoction of leaves used to induced diuresis for purpose of treating kidney stones. – Sitz-bath of boiled leaves, 500 gms to a gallon of water, for rheumatic pains of waist and back. – Used in upper and lower respiratory tract affections like sinusitis, asthmatic bronchitis, influenza. – Applied while hot over the sinuses. Used for wounds and cuts. Fresh juice of leaves to wounds and cuts. – Poultice of leaves applied to the forehead for relief of headaches. – Tea is used for colds and as an expectorant; likewise, has antispasmodic and antidiarrheal benefits. Postpartum baths. – In Vietnam, decoction of fresh leaves used for cough and influenza or as inhalation of vapour from boiling of leaves. Poultices of pounded leaves applied to hemorrhoids; an alcoholic maceration used as liniment for rheumatism. – 3% ethanol solution used to soothe itching. – In Thailand, dried leaves are chopped, made into cigarettes and smoked for treating sinusitis. – For fever, leaves boiled and when lukewarm used as sponge bath. – Decoction of roots used for fever. – Decoction of leaves, 50 gms to a pint of boiling water, 4 glasses daily, for stomach pains. – In SE Asia widely used for various women problems. Postpartum, leaves are used in hot fomentation over the uterus to induce rapid involution. Also used for menorrhagia, dysmenorrhea, functional uterine bleeding and leucorrhea. – Roots used for menorrhagia. – Decoction of roots and leaves used for rheumatism and arthritis; also used for treatment of post-partum joint pains. – Poultice of fresh leaves applied to affected joint. – In Chinese and Thai medicine, leaves used for treatment of septic wounds and other infections. – A sitz-bath of boiled leaves used in the treatment of lumbago and sciatica. – In Chinese medicine, used as carminative, stimulant, vermifuge, expectorant, and sudorific. Preparations †¢ Fever: decoction of roots; boil 2 – 4 handfuls of the leaves. Use the lukewarm decoction as a sponge bath. †¢ Headaches: apply pounded leaves on the forehead and temples. Hold in place with a clean piece of cloth. †¢ Gas distention: boil 2 tsp of the chopped leaves in 1 cup of water for 5 minutes. Drink the decoction while warm. Also used for upset stomach. †¢ Postpartum, for mothers’ bath after childbirth. †¢ Boils: Apply pounded leaves as poultice daily. †¢ Diuretic: Boil 2 tbsp chopped leaves in 2 glasses of water for 15 minutes. Take 1/2 of the decoction after every meal, 3 times a day. Reference: Am J Chin Med. 2008;36(2):411-24. International Journal of Applied Science and Engineering . 2005. 3, 3: 195-202 3. Biological Activities 3.1. Antitumor Activity Hasegawa et al. extracted a dihydroflavonol from B. balsamifera as a result of screening among more than 150 plant materials [12]. The dihydroflavonol components showed the most significant synergism with tumor related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL). It enhanced the level of TRAIL-R2 promoter activity and promoted the expression of surface protein in a p53-independent manner. The ethanol extract of B. balsamifera leaves was tested on male mice to investigate its hepatoxicity. The results exhibited that the hepatic cells, sitplasm, nucleus, and sinusoid of the mice liver were damaged through some changes in the liver color and texture . The methanol extract of B. balsamifera inhibited the growth in rat and showed no cytotoxicity on human hepatocellular carcinoma cells. The methanol extract decreased the expression of cyclin-E and phosphorylation of retinoblastoma (Rb) protein resulting in cell cycle arrest. Likewise, it decreased the level of the proliferation related ligand (APRIL) [60,61]. Moreover, the methanol extract of B. balsamifera was used to determine its cytotoxicity on a panel of human cancer cell lines by MTT assay. There was no regular or acute cytotoxicity on the cells of HepG2, HCT-116, T-47D, NCl-H23 and CCD-18Co [62]. Saewan et al. found six compounds out of nine isolated flavonoids to have cytotoxicity against KB, MCF-7, and NCI-H187 cancer cell lines [14]. These six compounds were evaluated for cytotoxicity against KB,  MCF-7, and NCI-H187 cancer cell lines. Three compounds were active against the KB cells with the IC50 values of 17.09, 47.72, and 17.83 ÃŽ ¼g/mL, respectively. Another three compounds exhibited a moderate activity against the NCI-H187 cells with the IC50 values of 16.29, 29.97, and 20.59 ÃŽ ¼g/mL. Luteolin-7-methyl ether showed a strong cytotoxicity against human lung cancer (NCI-H187) cell lines with an IC50 of 1.29 ÃŽ ¼g/mL and a moderate toxicity against oral cavity cancer (KB) cell lines with an IC50 of 17.83 ÃŽ ¼g/mL. Li et al. studied the antitumor activity determined by means of 3-(4,5 dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay [13]. The three endophytic streptomycetes strains of B. balsamifera, including: YIM 56092, YIM 56093, and YIM 56099 exhibited anticancer activity. Yet, different strains displayed different antitumor activities. The YIM 56092 strain displayed a cytotoxic activity on polyketide synthases I (PKS-I) nonribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPS) and P388D1. The YIM 56093 strain displayed a cytotoxic activity on PKS-â… ¡, NRPS, and P388D1. The YIM 56099 was on the PKS-I, PKS-II, and NRPS. Fuijimoto et al., extracted blumealactone A, B, and C from sambong’s dried leaves and found them could inhibit the growth of Yoshida sarcoma at the concentration of 5–10 ÃŽ ¼g/ml [54]. Lee disclosed a medication combination including sambong (Ainaxiang) and found it could enhance the efficiency of curing hepatoma and pancreatic cancer treatments [63]. Molecules 201 4, 19 9462 3.5. Anti-Microbial and Anti-Inflammation Activity Ongsakul et al. claimed that the crude aqueous and ethanolic extracts of B. balsamifera displayed no significant antibacterial activity against the strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli [73]. However, the stain of B. balsamifera, including YIM 56092 and YIM 56093, displayed a significant activity against S. epidermidis, such that YIM 56099 was active against E. coli. There seems to be no antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Candida albicans [13]. Chenisolated twelve new compounds [9], four of which displayed inhibitory activities against LPS-induced NO production in RAW 264.7 with the IC50 values of 40.06, 46.35, 57.80, and 59.44 ÃŽ ¼g/mL, respectively. Sakee et al. reported the essential oil of B. balsamifera to have a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 150 ÃŽ ¼g/mL and 1.2 mg/mL against Bacillus cereus, S. aureus and Candida  albicans, respectively [74]. Furthermore, the hexane extract inhibited Enterobacter cloacae and S. aureus. These results suggested that the extracts of B. balsamifera possessed an activity against certain kinds of infectious and toxin-producing microorganisms. It could potentially be utilized to prevent and treat microbial diseases. 3.6. Antiplasmodial Activities According to the traditional efficacy of relieving fever, the methanol extract of B. balsamifera from Forest Research Institute Malaysia was investigated for any potential antiplasmodial activity. The extracts of roots and stems exhibited some activity against Plasmodium falciparum D10 strain (sensitive strain) with an IC50 value of (26.25  ± 2.47) ÃŽ ¼g/mL and (7.75  ± 0.35) ÃŽ ¼g/mL, respectively [75]. 3.8. Platelet Aggregation Activities The concentration of 1.26 ÃŽ ¼mol/L blumeatin displayed a significant promoting activity on the rat and human platelet aggregation caused by arachidonic acid, 5-hydotypamice, and epinephrine. However, concentrations of 0.315 and 2.52 ÃŽ ¼mol/L inhibited platelet aggregation. It suggested that the effects of blumeatin on the platelet aggregation were dependent upon the concentration used. The injection of B. balsamifera extracts decreased the blood pressure, expanded the blood vessels, and inhibited the sympathetic nervous system in order to address the high pressure and insomnia. The infusion of the plant also had the function of diuresis [67] Mayana (Coeus blumei Benth.) Coleus leaves are commonly known as ati-ati leaves in Malaysia. Previous study has shown that the Coleus leaves have high antioxidant activity and nutritional value. The present work is to investigate whether antioxidant, minerals and phenolic content can be extracted by boiling the leaves in water. The antioxidant was determined by mixing the extract solution with DPPH (2, 2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl) solution using different ratios. Acid ascorbic acid was used as standard in measurement by Uv-Vis Spectrophotometer. Phenolic content was measured by Uv-Vis Spectrophotometer using Gallic acid as standard. There is about 40.77 wt % of antioxidant  activity, 6.256998 wt% of total phenolic content, and some minerals (magnesium, calcium, iron and zinc) existing in solution after the Coleus blumei leaves were removed. The wt% of the phenolic content is directly proportional to the wt% of antioxidant activity. The mineral concentration, antioxidant activity and phenolic content seemed to be highly correlated. As a conclusion, it is proven that the Coleus blumei leaves have high potential value for the nutritional purpose. 2.1 Definition of Coleus Coleus is a name which derives from an earlier classification under the genus name Coleus, species of which are currently included in either Solenostemon or another genus, Plectranthus. The word Coleus come from the Greek â€Å"koleus’, meaning sheath. It is believed that there are 150 species of Coleus .It is a genus of perennial plants, native to tropical Africa, Asia, Australia, the East Indies, the Malay Archipelago, and the Philippines. Many cultivars of the Southeast Asian species Coleus have been selected for their colorful variegated leaves, usually with sharp contrast between the colors where the leaves are green, pink, yellow, maroon, and red. Typically, in Malaysia this plant known as ati-ati. The plants need a well condition of in moist-drained soil to grow, and typically grow 0.5-1 m tall, though some may grow as tall as 2 meters. They are heat-tolerant, though they do less well in full sun in subtropical areas than in the shade. The leaves of the green type are often eaten raw with bread and butter. The chopped leaves are also used as a substitute for sage (Salvia officinalis Linn.) in stuffing. C. aromaticus is used for seasoning meat dishes and in food products (Uphof, 1959) while a decoction of its leaves is administered in cases of chronic cough and asthma (CSIR, 1992). It is considered to be an antispasmodic, stimulant and stomachic and is used for the treatment of headache, fever, epilepsy and dyspepsia (Khory &Katrak, 1999; Morton, 1992) . 2.2 Antioxidant An antioxidant in food is really important as it can protect human body from free radicals activity. It is also has capable of slowing or preventing the oxidation of other molecules. When electrons are transferred form a substance to an oxidizing agent, it called as oxidation reaction. Free radicals can be produced during the Oxidation reactions, where the start  chain reactions that damage cells. Antioxidants terminate these chain reactions by removing free radical intermediates, and inhibit other oxidation reactions by being oxidized themselves. As a result, antioxidants are often reducing agents such as thiols or polyphenols. Although oxidation reactions are crucial for life, they can also be damaging; hence, plants and animals maintain complex systems of multiple types of antioxidants, such as glutathione, vitamin C, and vitamin E as well as enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase and various peroxidases. Low levels of antioxidants, or inhibition of the antioxidant enzym es, causes oxidative stress and may damage or kill cells. As oxidative stress might be an important part of many human diseases, the use of antioxidants in pharmacology is intensively studied, particularly as treatments for stroke and neurodegenerative diseases. However, it is unknown whether oxidative stress is the cause or the consequence of disease. Antioxidants are also widely used as ingredients in dietary supplements in the hope of maintaining health and preventing diseases such as cancer and coronary heart disease. Although some studies have suggested antioxidant supplements have health benefits, other large clinical trials did not detect any benefit for the formulations tested, and excess supplementation may be harmful In addition to these uses in medicine, antioxidants have many industrial uses, such as preservatives in food and cosmetics and preventing the degradation of rubber and gasoline. Current research into free radicals has confirmed that foods rich in antioxidants play an essential role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and cancers. As far as our literature survey could ascertain, antioxidant activities of this plant have not previously been published. Hence, the previous work investigated the possible antioxidat ive effects of freeze-dried powder obtained from aqueous extract of fresh leaves of C. aromaticus. In this study, they had examined the antioxidant activity of CAE (C.aromaticus hydroalcoholic extract) employing various in vitro assay systems, such as the ÃŽ ²- carotene-linoleate model system, DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl)/superoxide/ nitric oxide radical scavenging, reducing power and iron ion chelation, in order to understand the usefulness of this plant as a foodstuff as well as in medicine. 2.2.1 Antioxidant Assay using a ÃŽ ²-carotene-linoleate Model System On the previous experiment, the antioxidant activity of the extract was measured by the bleaching of  ÃŽ ²-carotene. By adding CAE and BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) at various concentrations, it can prevent the bleaching of ÃŽ ²-carotene to different degrees. ÃŽ ²-Carotene in this model system undergoes rapid discoloration in the absence of an antioxidant. This is because of the coupled oxidation of ÃŽ ²-carotene and linoleic acid, which generates free radicals. The linoleic acid free radical, formed upon the abstraction of a hydrogen atom from one of its diallylic methylene groups, which attacks the highly unsaturated ÃŽ ²-carotene molecules. As a result, ÃŽ ²-carotene will be oxidized and broken down in part; subsequently, the system looses its chromophore and characteristic orange colour, which can be monitored spectrophotometrically. The presence of different antioxidants can hinder the extent of ÃŽ ²-carotene bleaching by neutralizing the linoleate free radical and other free radicals formed in the system (Jayaprakasha, Singh, & Sakariah, 2001). It also showed that the CAE was found to hinder the extent of ÃŽ ²-carotene bleaching by neutralizing the linoleate-free radical and other free radicals formed in the system. In comparison, the CAE showed an appreciable antioxidant activity of 83.0% at 250 ÃŽ ¼g/ml, while BHT, a synthetic antioxidant had 89.6% antioxidant activity at 100 ÃŽ ¼g/ml. Table 2.1: Antioxidant activity of aqueous extract of C. aromaticus in ÃŽ ²-carotenelinoleate System Sample Concentration (ÃŽ ¼g/ml) Antioxidant activity (%) Aqueous extract 125 53.2  ± 1.04 250 83.0  ± 1.33 500 91.3  ± 1.41 BHT 50 64.2  ± 1.81 100 89.6  ± 1.52 200 95.3  ± 1.33 2.2.2 DPPH Radical-scavenging Activity The CAE showed a concentration-dependent antiradical activity by inhibiting DPPH radical with an EC50 value of 210 ÃŽ ¼g/ml (Table 2). DPPH is usually used as a substrate to evaluate antioxidative activity of antioxidants (Oyaizu, 1986). The method is based on the reduction of methanolic DPPH solution in the presence of a hydrogen donating antioxidant, due to the formation of the non-radical form DPPH-H by the reaction. The extract was able to reduce the stable radical DPPH to the yellow-coloured diphenylpicrylhydrazine. It has  been found that cysteine, glutathione, ascorbic acid, tocopherol, polyhydroxy aromatic compounds (e.g., hydroquinone, pyrogallol, gallic acid), and aromatic amines (e.g., p-phenylene diamine, p aminophenol), reduce and decolorise 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl by their hydrogen donating ability (Blois,  Oregano (Origanum vulgare L.)  oregano (É™rÄ•gˈənÃ… ) [key], name for several herbs used for flavoring food. A plant of the family Labiatae (mint family),Origanum vulgare, also called Spanish thyme and wild marjoram, is the usual source for the spice sold as oregano in the Mediterranean countries and in the United States. Its flavor is similar to that of marjoram but slightly less sweet. In Spain and Italy many other Origanum species are also grown as oregano. A related herb ( Coleus amboinicius ) of the same family, called suganda in its native Indomalaysia, is known as oregano in the Philippines and Mexico, where it is a popular flavoring. Several other herbs also provide spices called oregano, e.g., species ofLippia and Lantana of the verbena family. In all cases the flavoring is made from the dried herbage. Oregano is classified in the division Magnoliophyta, class Magnoliopsida, order Lamiales, family Labiatae . All rights reserved. genus Origanum is a member of the Lamiaceae family and has a complex taxonomy [1]. O. vulgare plays a primary role among culinary herbs in world trade [2]. It is distributed all over Europe, West and Central Asia up to Taiwan [3]. The use of O. vulgare as medicinal plant is believed to be due to biological properties of p-cymene and carvacrol. Bernà ¡th [4] has noted that there are intras- pecific taxa of oregano having no â€Å"oregano† character that is based on the presence of carvacrol. Oregano is the common name for a general aroma and flavour primarily derived from more than 60 plant species used all over the world as a spice [5]. Four main groups of plants com- monly used for culinary purposes can be distinguished, i.e., Greek oregano (Origanum vulgare ssp. hirtum (Link) Ietswaart); Spanish origano (Coridohymus capitatus (L.) [2]; Turkish oregano (Origanum onites L.); and Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens HBK [6]. Origano is the commercial name of those Origanum species that are rich in the phenolic  monoterpenoids, mainly carvacrol and occasionally thymol [7]. A number of chemically related compounds i.e. p-cymene; ÃŽ ³-terpinene, carvacrol methyl ethers, thymol methyl ethers, carvacrol acetates and thymol acetates; as well as p-cymenene, p-cy- men-8-ol, p-cymen-7-ol, thymoquinone, and thymohy- droquinone are present in the oil of Origanum vulgare which is extremely rich in essential oils (up to 7%) with carvacrol as a major constituent present in very high quantity (75% – 95%), followed by p-cymene (4% – 14%) and ÃŽ ³-terpinene (1% – 10%). It seems possible that the uses of the plant in traditional medicine can be attributed to the known biological properties of p-cymene and car- vacrol [8]. Many of the studies confirmed the medicinal effects of oregano for human health. The Origanum spe- cies, which are rich in essential oils, have been used for thousands of years as spices and as local medicines in traditional medicine [9]. About 20 European public in- stitutions hold genetic resources of different species of oregano [10]. Marjoram (Origanum vulgare L.) is one of medicinal aromatic plants found wholesale almost in all areas of Albania, which is a perennial plant usually grows in dry area in smaller groups. Oregano plants are collect- ed from natural habitats and used as raw materials in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industry [11]. But many countries start to cultivate it in different areas. In botanical aspects, the oregano populations differ from one to another, that is they vary depending on the content and composition of essential oils [12]. From the quantity and quality of essential oils the values of this plant were determined [11,12]. The different results showed that the effects of oregano antioxidante are associated with high content of essential oils, thymol and carvacrols, and these are the main ingredients in oregano oil. The con- tents of Thymol and Carvacrol in oregano give it differ- ent properties [13]. According to the studies, carvacrol is a powerful bactericidal agent, and provides protection against mold and other common bacteria. The main ob- jective in our study was to investigate the different re- gions and to find the variation for oil content in oregano plant populations. The research expedition was organized in 2012 in the whole territory of Albania. During this expedition are identified and collected 62 accessions. At each location were taken of the 50 samples which derived a main rep- resentativ sample. From the total samples collected, were selected 16 samples mostly widespread of natural popu- lations of  origano (Origanum vulgare L. sp. vulgare and sp. hirtum). Those samples you perform analyzes for content of oils and their components. The confirmation of 53 essential oil was made to analyses: ÃŽ ²-Pinene, p- Cymene, ÃŽ ³-Terpinene, Linalool, Terpinene-4-ol, Thymol, Carvacrol dhe Caryophyllene oxide. The overground parts of the flowering plants (20 – 25 cm from the top) were collected during the summer of 2012. The plant material was air dried, packed in paper bags and kept in a dark and cool place until analysis. Plant identity was verified and voucher specimens were deposited at the Institute of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Skopje. 2.2. Essential Oil Isolation Essential oil isolation from oregano was performed by hydro distillation in all-glass Clevenger apparatus fol- lowing this procedure: 20 g of the plant material was stored in 500 mL flask where 250 mL of water R was used as distillation liquid and 0.5 mL of xylene R was added in the graduate tube. The Distillation was per- formed for 2.5 h with a rate of 2 – 3 mL/min. GC and GC-MS analyses: Agilent 7890Ð  Gas Chro- matography system equipped with flame ionization de- tector (FID) and Agilent 5975C Mass Quadrupole detec- tor as well as capillary flow technology which enable simultaneous analysis of the sample on both detectors. HP-5 ms (30 m Ãâ€" 0.25 mm, film thickness 0.25 ï  ­m) cap- illary column was used. Operating conditions were as follows: GC Method for essential oils: oven temperature 60 °C (0 min), 3 °C/min to 240 °C (held for 1 min) and 10 °C/min to 280 °C (held for 1 min); helium as carrier gas at a flow rate of 1 mL/min; injector T = 220 °C and FID T = 270 °C. 1 ï  ­L of injection volume was injected at split ratio 1:1. The mass spectrometry conditions were: ionization voltage 70 eV, ion source temperature 230 °C, transfer line temperature 280 °C and mass range from 50 – 500 Da. The MS was operated in scan mode. GC Method for Head Space: oven temperature 60 °C, 20 °C/min to 280 °C; helium as carrier gas at a flow rate of 1 mL/min; injector T = 260 °C and FID T = 270 °C. 1000 ï  ­L of injec- tion volume was injected at split ratio 1:1. The mass spectrometry conditions were: ionization voltage 70 eV, ion source temperature 230 °C, transfer line temperature 280 °C and mass range from 50 – 500 Da. The MS was operated in scan mode. Head Space method: Incubation Temperature 80 °C, Incubation Time 5.00 m:ss, Syringe Temperature 85 °C, Agitator Speed 500 rpm, Fill Speed 500 ÃŽ ¼l/s, Pullup Delay 500 ms, Inject to GC, Injection speed 500 ÃŽ ¼l/s, Pre  Inject Delay 500 ms, Post Inject De- lay 500 ms, Flush Time (m:ss) 0:10, GC Run time (m:ss) 10:00. Identification of the components: Identification of the components was made by comparing mass spectra of components in essential oils with those from Nist, Wiley and Adams mass spectra libraries, by AMDIS (Auto- mated Mass Spectral Deconvolution and Identification System) and by comparing literature and estimated Ko-vat’s (retention) indices that were determined using mix-ture of homologous series of normal alkanes from C9 to C25 in hexane, under the same above mentioned condi- tions. The percentage ratio of the components was com- puted by the normalization method of the GC/FID peak areas and average values were taken into further consid- eration (n = 3). 2.3. Statistical Analyses All statistical analyses were performed with the SPSS software (version 15.0, SPSS) [14]. Means values and variation coefficients were used in the statistical analyses. Effects of the studied traits were evaluated by ANOVA. In order to assess the differentiation of plants of oregano based on all variables that were measured, the Canonical Discriminate Analyses (CDA) was applied Psidium guajava (Guava): Chronic degenerative diseases have reached epidemic proportions in industrialized and developing countries. Many studies have shown that plant can be helpful to prevent or treat diseases. Psidium guajava is a small medicinal tree that is native to South America and Brazil is among the world’s top producers and most of the country’s production is destined for the food industry. It is popularly known as guava and has been used traditionally as a medicinal plant throughout the world for a number of ailments. The aim of this review is to present some chemical compounds in P. guajava and their pharmacological effects. The main constituents of guava leaves are phenolic compounds, isoflavonoids, gallic acid, catechin, epicathechin, rutin, naringenin, kaempferol. The pulp is rich in ascorbic acid, carotenoids (lycopene, ÃŽ ²-carotene and ÃŽ ²-cryptoxanthin). The seeds,  skin and barks possess glycosids, carotenoids and phenolic compounds. All parts of the plant have been used for different purposes: hepatoprotection, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, anti-cancer, antimicrobial, anti-hyperglycemic, analgesic, endothelial progenitor cells, anti-stomachache and anti-diarrhea. P. guajava has many effects on health and that it should be researched more extensively in clinical trials. Furthermore leaves, seeds and peel are treated as wastes by the food processing industry and are discarded, so their use may reduce the disposal of these parts of guava as pollutants. Psidium guajava; Anti-inflammatory; Antioxidant; Cancer; Diabetes; Dyslipidemia Industrialization has led to many modifications in the lifestyle of the world’s populations, giving rise to increase the indices of several diseases, including chronic degenerative diseases such as insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases, reducing the quality of life and increasing costs on hospitalizations, medications and other public health interventions. Studies have demonstrated that the consumption of fruits, vegetables and seeds can be helpful to prevent the risk factors of many diseases due to the bioactive compounds. Many plants have been used for the purpose of reducing risk factors associated with the occurrence of chronic disorders and for many other purposes Psidium guajava L. is a small medicinal tree that is native to South America. It is popularly known as guava (family Myrtaceae) and has been used traditionally as a medicinal plant throughout the world for a number of ailments. There are two most common varieties of guava: the red (P. guajava var. pomifera) and the white (P. guajava var. pyrifera) All parts of this tree, including fruits, leaves, bark, and roots, have been  used for treating stomachache and diarrhea in many countries. Leaves, pulp and seeds are used to treat respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders, and as an antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, as a cough sedative, anti-diarrheic, in the management of hypertension, obesity and in the control of diabetes mellitus. It also possesses anticancer properties . The seeds are used as antimicrobial, gastrointestinal, anti-allergic and anticarcinogenic activity. Brazil is among the world’s top producers of guava and most of the country’s production is destined for the food industry to produce candies, juices, jams and frozen pulp. As result of the fruit process there is a discard of the leaves, seeds, part of the peel and pulp fraction not separated in the physical depulping process. The high cost of pharmaceutical medications conduces to the search for alternative medicines to treat many ailments. In view of this, studies are necessary to confirm the effects of medicinal plants. The aim of this review is to show that several studies have demonstrated the presence of many different chemical compounds in P. guajava and their pharmacological effects. Medical Properties and Composition of Guava Pulp The main constituents of guava are vitamins, tanins, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, essential oils, sesquiterpene alcohols and triterpenoid acids. These and other compounds are related to many health effects of guava . Some authors have found high concentrations of carotenoids (beta-carotene, lycopene, and beta-cryptoxanthin), vitamin C and polyphenols in guava pulp. Lycopene has been correlated with the prevention of cardiovascular damage because of its positive effects on dyslipidemia . Ascorbic acid is recognized for its important antioxidant effects . Shu et al. isolated nine triterpenoids from guava fruit: ursolic acid; 1beta, 3beta-dihydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid; 2alpha,3beta-dihydroxyurs-  12-en-28-oic acid; 3beta,19alpha-dihydroxyurs-12en-28-oic acid; 19a-hydroxylurs-12-en-28-oic acid-3-O-alpha-L-arabinopyrano- side; 3beta, 23-dihydroxy urs-12-en-28-oic acid; 3beta, 19alpha, 23beta- tri-hydroxylurs-12-en-28-oic acid; 2alpha, 3beta,19alpha, 23beta-tetrahydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid and 3alpha,19alpha,23,24-tetrahydroxyurs -12-en-28-oic acid. Ursolic acid and other triterpenoids are associated with anti-cancer properties. Shu et al. found three benzophenone glycosides in ripe edible fruits of P. guajava L: 2, 6-dihydroxy-3, 5-dimethyl-4-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-benzophenone; 2, 6-dihydroxy-3-methyl-4-O-(6’’-O-galloyl-beta-D-glucopyranosyl)-benzophenone and 2, 6-dihydroxy-3, 5-dimethyl-4-O-(6’’-O-galloyl-beta-D-glucopyranosyl)-benzophenone. Benzophenone glycosides have inhibitory effect on triglycerides accumulation. Thuaytong and Anprung found antioxidant activity in guava and the major constituents identified in white and red guavas were ascorbic acid, gallic acid, catechin equivalents, cinnamyl alcohol, ethyl benzoate, ß-caryophyllene, (E)-3-hexenyl acetate and ÃŽ ±-bisabolene. The antioxidant properties of the guava pulp can be related to anti-cancer effects. Studies with humans have found that the consumption of guava for a period of 12 weeks reduced blood pressure by 8%, total cholesterol levels by 9%, triacylglycerides by almost 8%, and induced an 8% increase in the levels of HDL-c. Farinazzi et al.showed that animals treated with guava pulp juice had significantly lower body weight, glycemia, cholesterol and triglycerides levels and significantly augmented the levels of HDL-c when compared to the animals from the control group. Lyophilized pulp of P. guajava in diabetic rats induces to significant hypoglycemic effects probably due to its antioxidant activity of compounds present in the pulp. Medical Properties and Composition of Guava Leaves Guava leaf extract has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities. These effects are probably due to the presence of phenolic compounds.   Jimà ©nez-Escrig et al., Wang et al. and Haida et. reported the presence of higher amounts of phenolic compounds with antioxidant activity in the leaves of white (Psidium guajava var. pyrifera L.) and red guava (Psidium guajava var. pomifera L.) when compared with other vegetable species. Wu et al, Melo et al. and Chen et al found gallic acid, catechins, epicatechins, rutin, naringenin and kaempferol in the leaves. Studies have shown that gallic acid, catechin, and epicatechin inhibit pancreatic cholesterol esterase, which decreases cholesterol levels. Catechins are important as a preventive treatment for diabetes type 2 and obesity. Quercetin has been associated to decreased mortality from heart disease and decreased incidence of stroke. Quercetin presents hypocholesterolemic and antioxidant activity. Rutin is effective in the inhibition of triglyceride accumulation in adipocytes. Naringenin and kaempferol can promote moderate cytostatic activity against all cell lines and kaempferol can be useful as anticancer . Fu et al.elucidated the structure of three novel sesquiterpenoid- based meroterpenoids of psidials A-C found in guava leaves. Matsuzak et al.isolated two new benzophenone galloyl glycosides, guavinosides A and B, and a quercetin galloyl glycoside, guavinoside C as well as five known quercetin glycosides from guava leaves. The structures of the novel glycosides were elucidated to be 2,4,6-trihydroxybenzophenone 4-O-(6’’-O-galloyl)-beta-D: -glucopyranoside (1, guavinoside A); 2,4,6-trihydroxy-3,5-dimethylbenzophenone 4-O-(6’’-O-galloyl)-beta-D: -glucopyranoside (2, guavinoside B), and quercetin 3-O-(5’’-O-galloyl)-alpha-L: -arabinofuranoside (3, guavinoside C). Kim et al.related that the guava leaves contain ascorbic acid, citric acid,  acetic acid, epicatechin, xanthine, protocatechuic acid, glutamic acid, asparagine, malonic acid, trans-aconitic acid, maleic acid and cis-aconitic acid. Ghosh et al.isolated two terpenoids from the leaf extract of P. guajava (betulinic acid and lupeol) and reported their potential antimicrobial and phytotoxic activities. Betulinic acid and lupeol can be used in the treatment of diabetes, cardiovascular desease, obesity and atherosclerosis. Shao et al. isolated two terpenoids from guava leaves: Psiguadials A and B, two novel sesquiterpenoid-diphenylmethane meroterpenoids with unusual skeletons, along with a pair of known epimers, psidial A and guajadial. Shu et al.identified one diphenylmethane, one benzophenone, and eight flavonoids from guava fresh leaves(2,6-dihydroxy-3-formaldehyde-5-methyl-4-O-(6†³-O-galloyl-ÃŽ ²-D-glucopyranosyl)-diphenylmethane; 2,6-dihydroxy-3,5-dimethyl-4-O-(6†³-O-galloyl-ÃŽ ²-D-glucopyranosyl)-benzophenone; kaempferol; quercetin; quercitrin; isoquercitrin; guaijaverin; avicularin; hyperoside and reynoutrin. Guaijaverin has high potential antiplaque agent by inhibiting the growth of the Streptococcus mutans. Avicularin and guaijaverin work as urease inhibitors (against Helicobacter pylori urease). Shao et al. isolated four new triterpenoids, psiguanins A-D (1-4), and with 13 known compounds from the leaves of guava.   Guava aqueous leaf extract showed anti-trypanosomal properties in rats experimentally infected with Trypanosoma brucei brucei.   Rahim et al.evaluated the effects of aqueous mixture and water soluble methanol extract from guava leaves and bark against multi-drug-resistant Vibrio cholera and found strong antibacterial activity. They concluded that this plant offers potential for controlling epidemics of cholera. Birdi et al. and Birdi et al. related that P. guajava leaves have a broad spectrum of antimicrobial action (as antigiardial and antirotaviral activity) that could be effective in controlling diarrhea due to a wide range of pathogens. The antimicrobial activity can be linked to the presence of flavonoids  extracted from guava leaves. Deguchi and Miyazaki reported that guava leaves infusion not only reduced postprandial glycemia and improved hyperinsulinemia in murine models but also contributed to reduce hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia and hypoadiponectinemia in the animals of their study. Rutin and kaempferol found in guava leaves are compounds related to the decrease of HMG-CoA reductase activity in hepatic tissue and improve lipid profiles. Akinmoladun et al. studied methanol extracts of some fruits, including P. guajava, and demonstrated that there is a good correlation between total phenolic contents and reductive potential and a fair correlation between total phenolic contents and lipid peroxidation inhibitory activity. Several studies have shown that aqueous extract of Psidium guajava contains components with LDL-c antiglycation activity, suggesting its contribution to the prevention of neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases Other studies have found cardioprotective effects of aqueous extract of P. guajava in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in isolated rat hearts, primarily through their radical-scavenging actions. Ojewole identified the presence of phenolic compounds in the leaves demonstrating their hypoglycemic and hypotensive effects on diabetic rats treated with aqueous leaf extract. Soman et al. reported a decline in the levels of glycated hemoglobin and fructosamines, as well as a significant reduction in the glycemic levels of diabetic rats treated with guava leaf extract. Singh and Marar studied the effects of Psidium guajava leaves on the inhibition of the activity intestinal glycosidases related with postprandial hyperglycemia, suggesting its use for the treatment of individuals with type 2 diabetes.Other studies have demonstrated that guava leaf and peel extracts also had hypoglycemic effects on experimental models drug-induced to severe conditions of diabetes. Wu et al.found that the phenolic compounds, gallic acid, catechins and  quercetins in guava leaves inhibited the glycation of proteins suggesting its use for the prevention of diabetes complications.The Psiguadials A, B and guajadial isolated by Shao et al. exhibited potent inhibitory effects on the growth of human hepatoma cells. Kim et al. related that the guava leaves contain compounds that promote free radical scavenging activity showing promising antioxidant properties. Dutta and Das identified significant anti-inflammatory activity of the ethanol extract of guava leaves in experimental models, while Kawakami et al. observed the antiproliferative activity of the leaves through inhibition of the catalytic activity of prostaglandin endoperoxide H synthases involved in the inflammatory process. Guava budding leaves aqueous extract possesses an extremely high content of poly phenolic and isoflavonoids and suppresses the cell migration and the angiogenesis. In view of this, clinically it has the potential to be used as an adjuvant anti-cancer chemo preventive . Matsuzak et al. isolated phenolic glycosides from guava leaves and showed significant inhibitory activity against histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells, and nitric oxide production from a murine macrophage-like cell line. Roy and Das studied the hepatoprotective activity of different extracts of P. guajava (petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol and aqueous) in acute experimental liver injury induced by carbon tetrachloride and paracetamol. The effects were compared with a known hepatoprotective agent and observed that the best effects came from guava methanolic leaf extract that significantly reduced the elevated serum levels of enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase) and bilirubin. P. guajava leaves exhibit high capacity to reduced polymerization and aggregation of sickle cell hemoglobin molecule. This molecule is a product of a defective genetic code of hemoglobin molecule and is prone to deoxygenation-induced polymerization and has low insolubility. The development of chemical modification agents that reduce the tendency of sickle cell hemoglobin molecule to aggregate represents an important  chemotherapeutic goal. Guava extract leaves can be responsible for membrane stabilizing effect on sickle erythrocytes that are susceptible to endogenous free radical-mediated oxidative damage. This effect can be attributed to the flavonoids, triterpenoids and host of other secondary plant metabolites . Chen et al. found that aqueous extract of guava budding leaves possess anti-prostate cancer activity in a cell line model and concluded they are promising anti-androgen-sensitive prostate cancer agent. Han et al. studied the effects of P. guajava ethyl acetate extract on atopic dermatitis and found that it inhibits chemokine expression in keratinocytes what suggests this extract can have possible therapeutic application in atopic dermatitis and other inflammatory skin diseases. Methanol extracts of the leaves can also be useful in the treatment of gastric ulcer disorders possibly due to the presence of volatile oil, flavonoids and saponins Methanolic extract of guava leaves can exhibit wound healing effects and this property can be explained by the presence of tannins and flavonoids. Guava leaves extract also can show anti cough effects as shown by Jaiarj et al. Medical Properties and Composition of Guava Discarded Products As told before, the fruit process results in the discard of the leaves, seeds, part of the peel and pulp. Some studies showed the presence of total phenolic compounds in the agroindustrial wastes (seeds, skin and pulp) of guava, confirming its antioxidant activity . Leaves, seeds and peels of fruits have significant proportions of bioactive compounds with beneficial physiological and metabolic properties. Its antioxidants can control body weight and biochemical variables like glycemia, dyslipidemia, hypertension and other risks of cardiovascular diseases. The antioxidant properties of the guava seeds extracts can be associated to anti-cancer effects on both hematological and solid neoplasms  and the antioxidant properties of the guava peel can be related to anti-cancer effects. Castro-Vargas et al.and Ojewole extracted and identified significant levels of carotenoids and total phenolic compounds from guava seeds. Seeds exhibit antimicrobial, gastrointestinal and anticarcinogenic activities probably due to the presence of phenolic glycosides in the composition. Farinazzi et al. showed that Wistar rats treated with guava seed had significantly lower glycemia, cholesterol and triglycerides levels and body weight. These animals significantly increased HDL-c levels. Rai et al. reported hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective effects in diabetic rats treated with aqueous extract of lyophilized guava peel.   Psidium guajava stem-bark extract can be used to treat malaria because it presents antiplasmodial activities possibly due to the presence of anthraquinones, flavonoids, seccoirridoids and terpenoids. Related study Many researchers have been demonstrating the presence of a wide variety of bioactive compounds in the leaf, seed and bark of Psidium guajava that are capable of showing beneficial effects on human health. If we consider that chronic degenerative diseases have reached epidemic proportions in many countries and increase the socio-economic burden for the public health system, it is necessary to find non-allopathic alternatives that minimize risk factors of these diseases and help in the treatment. Furthermore, population consumes medicinal plants also to treat other kind or diseases because of high costs of allopathic medications. The studies using P. guajava bring information that may provide validation for its medicinal uses but it should be researched more extensively in clinical trials so it could be used for prevention and as an adjuvant in the treatment of numerous disorders. Nevertheless we should emphasize the importance of experimental and clinical  studies involving more specific factors related to the bioavailability of the compounds, as well as the effective and safe doses to be used by individuals for the prevention and treatment of various disorders. Katakataka( bryopphyllum pinnatum) Constituents †¢ Phytochemical screenings have yielded alkaloids, triterpenes, glycosides, flavonoids, steroids, butadienolides, lipids, and organic acids. †¢ Yields arachidic acid, astragalin, behenic acid, beta amyrin, benzenoids, bersaldegenin, beta-sitosterol, bryophollenone, bryophollone, bryophyllin,caffeic acid, ferulic acid, quercetin, steroids, and taraxerol. †¢ Phytochemical evaluation of leaf extract yielded bryophyllum A, B and C, a potent cytotoxic bufadienolide orthoacetate. †¢ Bufadienolide has been reported to be poisonous with digitalis-toxicity type cardiac effects (slowing of heart rate, heart blocks and potentially fatal ventricular arrhythmias. †¢ Bryophillin A, a bufadienolide compound, has shown anti-tumor promoting activity. †¢ Leaves yield malic acid. Fractionation of an EtOAc extract yielded seven kaempferol rhamnosides: kaempferol 3-O-ÃŽ ±-L-(2-acetyl)rhamnopyranoside-7-O-ÃŽ ±-L-rhamnopyranoside, kaempferol 3-O-ÃŽ ±-L-(3-acetyl)rhamnopyranoside-7-O-ÃŽ ±-L-rhamnopyranoside, kaempferol 3-O-ÃŽ ±-L-(4-acetyl)rhamnopyranoside-7-O-ÃŽ ±-L-rhamnopyranoside, kaempferol 3-O-ÃŽ ±-D- glucopyranoside-7-O-ÃŽ ±-L-rhamnopyranoside, afzelin, and ÃŽ ±-rhamnoisorobin. (19) Properties †¢ Leaves considered astringent, antiseptic, hemostatic, refrigerant, emollient, counterirritant, mucilaginous, vulnerary, depurative, anti-inflammatory, disinfectant, and tonic. †¢ Pharmacologic studies have showed pharmacologic properties: immunomodulatory, CNS depressant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antianaphylactic, antileishmanial, antitumorous, antiulcer, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, febrifuge, gastroprotective, immunosuppressive, insecticidal, sedative, muscle relaxant. Folkloric – Leaves used as astringent, antiseptic, and counterirritant against  poisonous insect bites. – Pounded fresh material is applied as a poultice for a variety of conditions: Sprains, eczema, infections, burns, carbuncle and erysipelas. – Leaves, made pliable by hold over fire, are applied to wounds, bruises, boils; also, used as poultice or power in bad ulcers. – Juice is mixed with lard and used for diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, and phthisis. – Pounded leaves are applied as poultices to the soles of the feet to stop hemorrhages. – Leaves are used as topicals in dislocation, ecchymoses, callosities. – Leaves, pounded and mixed with salt, used as plaster and applied to stomach to relieve enuresis – For boils, the whole leaf is pressed by hand, to and fro, until it becomes moist with the leaf extract. A small opening is made in the middle of the leaf which is then placed on the boil with hole over the pointing of the abscess. – For asthma, leaves of leaves places in hot water for 15 minutes, then juice squeezed out of the leaves, and drunk. – Juice of leaves used in bilious diarrhea and lithiasis. – In Ayurveda, useful in vitiated conditions of vata and pitta, cuts, wounds, hemorrhoids, menorrhagia, boils, sloughing ulcers, burns and scalds, diarrhea, dysentery, headaches, vomiting, bronchitis. – In Puerto Rico, leaf juice used as diuretic. – Leaves are rubbed or tied on the head for headaches. – Leaf decoction usually taken to lower blood pressure. – Leaf juice used for earache and ophthalmia. – In Sierre Leon, cough medicine is made from the roots. – In Brazil leaves, heated over fire and mixed with oil, are used as emollient and refrigerant for facial swelling associated with neuralgia or tooth trouble. Also, used for asthma and bronchitis. – In Jamaica, leaves used for coughs and colds. Sometimes, it is mixed with salt or honey, for headaches, colds, bronchial affections, and hypertension. Heated leaves used for swellings and abscesses. – In Africa, used for earaches, eye problems, and as diuretic. – In China used for rheumatoid arthritis, bruises, burns and ulcers. – In Nigeria, plant is considered sedative, wound-healing, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and cough suppressant. Leaf juice used to treat boils and skin ulcers. Plant used for intestinal parasites, bronchitis,  pneumonia. Banana (Musa sapientum Linn.) The banana plant is the largest herbaceous flowering plant. The main or upright stem is actually a pseudostem, growing from a corm, to a height of 6 to 7.6 meters. Leaves are spirally arranged, as long as 2.7 meters and 60 cm wide, fragile and easily torn by wind, with the familiar frond look. Each pseudostem produces a single bunch of bananas; the pseudostem dies after fruiting, as offshoots usually develop from the base of the plant. Each pseudostem produces a single inflorescence, the banana heart, containing many bracts between rows of flowers. The banana fruits develop from the heart, in a hanging cluster made up of tiers (hands), up to 20 fruit to a tier. Distribution Cultivated throughout the Philippines in many varieties. Constituents †¢ Juice of the flower-stem contains potash, soda, lime, magnesia, alumina, chlorine, sulfuric anhydride, silica and carbon anhydride. †¢ High potassium content – a medium banana contains about 450 mg of potassium. (Because of potassium homeostasis in the body, 40K ingested is balanced by 40K potassium excreted. The net dose of a banana is zero.) †¢ Preliminary phytochemical screening of fresh steam juice yielded vitamin B, oxalic acid, sulphate, vitamin C, starch, tannin, glycosides, phenolic compounds, gum mucilage. †¢ Study yielded 6 triterpenes: 6 triterpenes: cyclomusalenol, cyclomusalenone, 24-methylenecycloartanol, stigmast-7-methylenecycloartanol, stigmast-7-en-3-ol, lanosterol, and a-amyrin and eight flavonoids. – Mineral content and nutritional value of varieties (lakatan, latundan, saba, and bungalan) Properties †¢ Demulcent, nutrient, cooling, astringent, antiscorbutic, antifebrile, restorative, emmenagogue, cardialgic, styptic. †¢ The ripe fruit is laxative, demiulcent, and nutrient. †¢ Unripe fruit is cooling and astringent. †¢ Dried fruit considered antiscorbutic. †¢ Root is antibilious and alterative. †¢ Juice of the plant is styptic. †¢ Because of its high potassium content, bananas are naturally slightly radioactive, more than other fruits. †¢ Good sources of vitamin A, fair sources of vitamin B, and good sources of vitamin C. All are deficient in calcium and phosphorus, and only fair in iron. †¢ Studies have attributed biologic activities: antiulcerogenic, antidiabetic, antiatherogenic, antidiarrheic, antitumoral, antimutagenic, antihypertensive. Parts used Leaves, fruit. Uses Edibility / Nutritional – The â€Å"puso† (male inflorescence) of saba is extensively used as a vegetable. – Unripe fruit is sugared and candied. – Ripe fruits also used in making brandy, rum, and wine. – Rich in vitamins A, B, and C; a fair source of iron. Folkloric †¢ Young leaves used for cool dressing of inflamed and blistered surfaces and as cool application for headaches. †¢ Powdered roots used for anemia and cachexia. †¢ Mucilage prepared from seeds used for catarrhal and mild inflammatory forms of diarrhea. †¢ Juice of tender roots used as mucilage for checking hemorrhages from the genitalia and air passages. †¢ In China, juice of roots used as antifebrile and restorative. †¢ Juice of the trunk applied to scalp to increase hair growth and prevent hair from falling. †¢ In West Africa, used for diarrhea. †¢ In Gambia, sap of inflorescence used for earaches. †¢ In French Guiana, flowers used as emmenagogue. †¢ In the Gold Coast, sap from roots given as enema for diarrhea. †¢ In Cambodia, Java and Malaya, juice from trunk used for dysentery and diarrhea. †¢ Juice from flowers, mixed with curds, for dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia. †¢ Flour made of green bananas used for dyspepsia with flatulence and acidity. †¢ Ripe fruit, mixed with half its weight in tamarinds and a little salt, is a valuable food in chronic dysentery and diarrhea, †¢ Cooked flower used for diabetes. Flowers also used as cardialgic. †¢ Sap of the flower used for  earaches. †¢ In Western Ghat in India, leaves are used for bandaging cuts, blisters and ulcers. †¢ Ripe bananas combined with tamarind and common salt used for dysentery. †¢ In traditional medicine in India, used for diabetes. †¢ In South-Western Nigeria, green fruits used for diabetes. Others †¢ Papermaking / Clothing: Plant fibers used in the manufacture of paper and clothes. A related species, Musa textilis (Abaca, Manila hemp) is produced on a commercial scale for its fiber use in the manufacture of paper. †¢ Wrapping / Cooking: Leaves used for wrapping food for cooking. Leaves used for polishing floors, lining pots for cooking rice. Studies †¢ Hypoglycemic / Flowers: Study on the chloroform extract of M sapientum flowers showed hypoglycemic activity with significant reduction of blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin and improvement in glucose tolerance. †¢ Hypoglycemic/ Fruits: Study on the green fruits of M paradisiaca indicate it possesses hypoglycemic activity and lends credence to its Nigerian folkloric use for diabetes. †¢ Antioxidant: (1) Musa sapientum flower extract showed improved antioxidant activity in diabetics. (2) A study of extracts of M. sapientum var. sylvesteris showed concentration-dependent scavenging effects, with antioxidant activity stronger than that of vitamin C. †¢ Gastroprotective: Study on the unripe plantain extract of M sapientum and unripe pawpaw meal showed alteration of the gastric phospholipid profile and through a prostaglandin pathway may have a profound effect on the gastroduodenal mucosa and implications for gastric and duodenal ulcers in rabbits. †¢ Flowers / Antihyperglycemic / Antioxidant: Study showed banana flower extract to have an antihyperglycemic action and antioxidant properties, comparatively more effective than glibenclamide. †¢ Analgesic: Study of the aqueous and ethanolic extract of Musa sapientum showed central analgesic action. †¢ Wound healing: Study of aqueous and methanolic extracts of Musa sapientum showed wound healing properties through increased wound breaking strength, reduced glutathione, decrease percentage of wound area, scar area and lipid peroxidation. Wound healing was probably through antioxidant effect and various biochemical parameters. †¢ Anti-Ulcer  Activity: Study of dried powder of banana pulp showed anti-ulcerogenic activity, esp in the unripe, mature green plantain banana (var. paradisiaca). †¢ Banana Peels Phytochemicals: Study showed the peel can be a good source of carbohydrates and fiber. The study of anti-nutrients showed generally low values except for saponins. Study suggests, properly processed and exploited, the peel could be a good source of livestock feed, providing a high quality and cheap source of carbohydrates and minerals. †¢ Antimicrobial Activity: (1) Study of ethanolic extracts of unripe bananas, lemon grass and turmeric showed antimicrobial activity at stock concentrations. Unripe bananas showed a high antimicrobial activity against all test organisms. (2) Ethanol extract of Musa sapientum showed antibacterial activity against the tested microorganisms – Gram-positive and Gram-negative bateria (B. subtilis, B. cereus, and E coli.) †¢ Anti-Helicobacter pylori / Anti-Internalisation Activity: In a study of 9 Thai plant extracts used for gastric ailments, Musa sapientum and Allium sativum showed marked anti-internalisation and present a potential benefit in H pylori , prevention eradication, therapy and avoidance of antibiotic resistance. †¢ Anticonvulsant: Study in mice showed AMS prevented convulsions possibly through prevention of inhibition of vitamin B6 metabolism with subsequent increase in GABA synthesis in the CNS or due to facilitatory effect on GABAergic neurons – an effect mediated by the antioxidant potential of phytoconstituents present in the AMS. †¢ Indigenous Antiulcer Activity / Leucocyanidin: Study investigated the anti-ulcerogenic activity of an aqueous extract of M. sapientum. Study yielded an active compound–a monomeric flavonoid, leucocyanidin, that showed anti-ulcerogenic activity, in congruous with standard drug esomeprazole. †¢ Antioxidant / Antibacterial /Hemagglutination Inhibition: Study of methanolic extract of leaves of M. sapientum var. Sylvesteris showed antioxidant and antibacterial activity in vitro. It also showed hemagglutination inhibition activities and hydrogen peroxide induced hemolysis inhibition activity of human red blood cells. †¢ Antimicrobial / Cytotoxicity: A methanolic extract of M. sapientum L subsp. sylvestris showed good antimicrobial activity the pulp, moderate activity with the peel, and insignificant activity with the seed. On cytotoxicity evaluation using Brine Shrimp Lethality, pulp>seed>peel.

Biographical Sketch Essay

-refer to a brief biography of an individual. This may contain the dates of one’s birth, and death if they are dead and small outline of their background. -must be no longer than 300 words -a (biosketch) brief summary of you or someone else’s professional or educational accomplishments, publications, and affiliations- -an abbreviated curriculum vitae (resumà ©)-meant to highlight important aspects of your training, experience, and areas of interest. -a ‘light sketch’ of a persons life Below is an example: Mae Jemison:Space Star Have you ever dreamed of flying freely through outer space, surrounded by a sea of stars? Mae Jemison fulfilled that dream. On September 12, 1992, aboard the spaceship Endeavour, she became the first African-American woman to blast into outer space. This wasn’t the only time, however, that Jemison had reached for the stars and realized her dreams. Jemison was born on October 17, 1956, in Decatur, Alabama, but she grew up in Chicago, Illinois. There weren’t many well-known African-American female role models while Jemison was growing up, but she didn’t let that stop her from achieving her goals. She was especially interested in anthropology, archaeology and astronomy. Luckily, her parents encouraged those interests. That encouragement drove her to excel. She graduated from high school at 16. Then she earned degrees in chemical engineering and African-American studies at Stanford University. Later, she graduated from Cornell University’s medical school. No challenge was too great for Jemison to take on. Jemison’s accomplishments did not end there. In 1981, she joined NASA’s space program in Houston, Texas. And in 1988, Jemison realized her biggest dream. She finally became an astronaut! Just four years later, she was named science mission specialist (another NASA first) on an Endeavour flight. Today, Jemison encourages young people–especially women and girls–to study the sciences. Her life example teaches us to follow our dreams, no matter how great. Capsule Biography-a biography in which all the important elements of the persons life are included, in summary form, kind of like an expanded obituary. -a detailed description or account of a person’s life. It entails more than basic facts (education, work, relationships, and death) a biography also portrays a subject’s experience of these events. – Feature Story-a special human interest story or article that is not closely tied to a recent news event. It focuses on particular people, places, and events, and it goes into great detail regarding concepts and ideas of specific market interest. -in journalistic terms, it is an article in newspapers, magazine or on the internet which is intended to add depth and perspective in a story. It mostly dwells on the background of an event and gives a human interest perspective to a story or a commentary on a particular issue.

Chemistry in depth essays

Chemistry in depth essays Archaeobacteria-prokaryotic organisms lacking peptidoglycan in their cell walls and differing from eubacteria in many ways. Binomial nomenclature-by Linnaeus where each organism is assigned a genus and specific epithet (2nd name) Cyanobacteria-photosynthetic, prokaryotic, typically unicellular organisms that are members of kingdom Monera Divergent evolution-process where descendents of a common ancestor species undergo sufficient change to be identified as separate species DNA hybridization-process where double strands of DNA of ea. Of 2 organisms are split apart and split strands from 2 organisms are allowed to combine Domain-new taxonomic category above kingdom level, consisting of Archae, Bacteria, and Eukarya Eukaryote-organism with eukaryotic cells (w/nucleus and other membrane bound structures Extreme halophile-grow in highly saline (salty) environments. Generally obligate aerobes Extreme thermoacidophile-require hot and acidic environment usually from Domain Archae Five-kingdom system-system of classifying organisms into one of 5 kingdoms: Monera (prokaryotae), Protista, Fungi, Plantae, and Animalia Fungi-kingdom of nonphotosynthetic, eukaryotic organisms that absorb nutrients from their environment Genetic homology-similarity of DNA base sequences among organisms Genus-taxon consisting of one or more species (1st name) Methanogen-one of groups of Archaeobacteria that produce methane gas Monera-(prokaryote) kingdom of prokaryotic organisms that are unicellular and lack true cell nucleus Mycoplasmas-very sm. Bacteria w/ cell membranes, RNA, and DNA, but no cell walls Numerical taxonomy-comparison of organisms based on quantitative assessment of a lg. # of characteristics Phage typing-use of bacteriophages to determine similarities or differences among different bacteria Phylogenetic-pertaining to evolutionary relationships Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE)-a technique for separating p...

Criminal Justice and Injustice essays

Criminal Justice and Injustice essays The Declaration of Independence stated, "all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights" (Jefferson). But how much of that is true? Since the very beginning of the legal system in the United States, there has been inequality. Appearance has held such precedence for Americans. Now, with the threat of terrorists, many use racial stereotypes to determine who is accountable for our unsafe environment. Color remains a powerful instrument for discrimination in the criminal justice system. Discrimination has been a large part of our society. But how can we overcome discrimination while the forces that protect us are one of the major causes? Police are using differential treatment upon minorities. In one case, which happened on March 3, 1991, four Los Angeles police officers brutally beat African American, Rodney King. When they brought the case to court, they moved it to a nearly all-white community without any jurors whom were African Ame rican. Some believe there are two justice systems: one for whites and one for people of color. Many feel the system is administered almost exclusively by whites and designed to protect the white lives and property but provide minimal protection to the life and safety of minorities like Rodney King. Because of the recent terrorists attacks, now more than ever, police are using racial profiling on anyone they feel is a threat or looks suspicious. The criminal justice system groups together all members of a particular race according to the actions of a relative few. By casting a negative light toward being Arab, Black, Mexican, Asian or any number of other ethnic races, the criminal justice system clearly demonstrates a great deal of ignorance and disrespect for that individual; just because someone is a member of a certain race does not mean that he or she represents any of the negative insinuations associated with that race. The September 11th terrorist ...

Why you need an internship - and 5 surprising things I learned at mine

Why you need an internship - and 5 surprising things I learned at mine We all can agree that college is tough. You’re busy checking Facebook in class, going to frat parties, and asking your parents for a weekly allowance. All jokes aside, the transition from high school to undergraduate is not easy. But, the transition from undergraduate to the real world is going to be even harder. Internships help make the experience more palatable. I remember being a freshman at Texas Christian University and hearing the upperclassman in the library stressing over what internship they were going to get. Back then, I knew internships were important enough to stress over, but I did not really know what they were or even their significance.   As the school years went by, so did the importance of internships. Positions started to become more competitive and I began to receive an overwhelming amount of letters that began with, â€Å"We regret to inform you.†Senior year was about to start, and I was still without an internship for the semester. I knew this was my last shot at boosting my resume, and I was determined to get an internship that would wow recruiters come graduation. I applied for the Varghese Summersett Digital Marketing Internship after furiously stalking the law firm’s website and social media accounts. I was blown away by the law firm’s success and was hopeful that my resume would stand out. I had no previous experience in law, but I did have an impressive background in marketing which is what landed me the job. Working at VS for the past nine months has been an enriching experience.   My expectations for elevating my marketing knowledge were surpassed within my first few weeks at the firm. Beyond that, I learned a few surprising lessons along the way.1. Yes, interning at a law firm is exactly like â€Å"Suits†For me, I’ve never aspired to be a lawyer, but after working at this firm I have been mesmerized by the law firm’s practicalities, the education required and the etiquette tha t is always displayed.   Everyone really does wear pantsuits, and I really did have to sign a non-disclosure. Learning about criminal law was mesmerizing, and hearing about our attorneys’ success was motivating.2. Seek clarityAs an intern, it’s important to always know the details of the project for which you are assigned. Your boss is counting on you.   Your work will be seen by a larger group of people beyond just your boss, and although some tasks may seem insignificant, everything adds up. Work hard on every project you are given because you never know where it may end up. For me, after I was given an assignment I would repeat the assignment in my own words back to my boss. Sometimes, my boss would correct me and better explain an aspect of a project that I lacked clarity on.3. Work hardInternships typically come with an upfront end date, which means they are only going to last a short amount of time. An internship is your time to gain as much hands-on experien ce as you can so that you can develop your skills, and set yourself up for a career in the real world.4. Be flexibleAs an intern, you are going to be asked to tackle projects that may be outside of your typical duties. You need to be flexible. Be open to wearing multiple hats. Taking on a variety of projects means you will be working with a variety of different people. Learning how to be adaptable will open up opportunities for you, and being flexible with your communication style or way of doing things is essential for success.5. Embrace challengesDoing things you have never done before is scary for everyone, especially when you are an intern. Use fear as a  fuel. Utilize it to enrich your skill set. For me, I had mentioned that I was barely proficient in Spanish. To my surprise, I was asked to translate for our Spanish speaking clients in multiple settings. I translated video recordings, client meetings, and phone calls. Spanish still is not my strong suit, but the value of taki ng on the challenge was indispensable. I showed my coworkers I was willing to help and gained their trust.About the author:  Margaret Foley is a senior at Texas Christian University, where she is majoring in Communications Studies and minoring in English and Graphic Design. She is currently interning at Varghese Summersett, a criminal defense firm based in Fort Worth, Texas.

Effects of alum sludge and its application to farmland Coursework

Effects of alum sludge and its application to farmland - Coursework Example A comprehensive research has been conducted to identify and measure the impact of alum sludge on farmlands and critically evaluate the beneficial uses of this element, so that they are used after considering all costs and benefits associated with its adoption. Additionally, the literature material that I have selected to make part of my research studies has been discussed in detail to justify their relevance and significance for reaching a suitable conclusion. Moreover, this paper entails the practical application and effectiveness of alum sludge that is being used for various diversified purposes in real world. This report highlights implications of presence of alum sludge with regards to pH value (acidity or alkalinity) of soil, forest trees and effective growth of plants. Finally, a concrete conclusion has been drawn at the end of this report to summarize the findings of entire research. Literature review I have mainly included 3 scholarly resources in my research to provide adequ ate reading material, research findings and strong discussions to enable me to reach a rational conclusion for my study. The first study was carried out by Rengasamy, Oades and Hancock in 1980 whereby they studied pros and cons of usage of alum sludge and concluded that it must be mixed in soils since it provides a strong structure and nourishment for plants. However, they suggested that conclusions are still dubious and require further research and verification at rates of the order of 2 t ha?1 (Rengasamy, Oades & Hancock, 1980). Next literature piece I have selected for my research is a study conducted with focus on adsorption capacity of alum sludge. This research revealed that alum sludge is highly useful for eradication of phosphate from wastewater due to its adsorbent characteristics. This article noted that alum sludge has been frequently questioned in various previous researches for its abilities and success rates when being used for adsorption process. The authors examined effects of pH value of soil on adsorption patterns exhibited by alum sludge and concluded that the phosphorus is highly susceptible to adsorption in acidic environment which have a lower pH as compared to more alkaline composition with higher pH strength. This article has also presented results of other similar studies (Yang et al, 2006). The final study pertains to features of dried alum and its effects on different subjects in different conditions. It shows how alum acted as a liming catalyst in enabling improvement and nourishing of potting media. This study gives me an entirely distinct viewpoint since it suggests that the growth of plants is adversely affected due to presence of alum, causing adsorption and scarcity of phosphorous in fertilizers which are intended to provide cultivation support for soil plants. Authors also are of opinion that alum sludge, when sprayed on deciduous and coniferous forest lands, increases soil pH but has no positive effect on growth of trees. Nev ertheless, they ensure through their findings that sludge is harm-free and does not contain any toxic effects (Bugbee, et al., 1985). Research Methods I adopted a skeptical approach to conduct my research, covering all areas comprehensively and thoroughly. I have selected the 3 sources after careful consideration since they all have worked on mutually exclusive issues pertaining to usage of alum sludge and also have given varying conclusions and outcomes of their findings. My research procedures began with verifying the results